Sucralfate Patient Tips

How it works

The exact way sucralfate works is not known; however, research shows it forms a film with albumin (a protein) exuded from the ulcer site. This film acts as a barrier to gastric acid, pepsin (one of the main digestive enzymes), and bile salts.

Sucralfate belongs to the class of medicines known as disaccharide sulfates. It is also known as a protectant anti-ulcer medicine.

Upsides

Used for the short-term (four-to-eight weeks) treatment of duodenal ulcers.

May be given as a smaller dose long-term to prevent re-erosion of the duodenal ulcer.

Only minimally absorbed from the stomach and duodenum; therefore, sucralfate is generally well tolerated with few side effects.

Downsides

If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include:

Constipation is the main side effect reported (in 2% of people); other side effects include diarrhea, nausea, itch, rash, and dry mouth. Generally, side effects are relatively rare (only reported in 4.7% of people who take sucralfate). Rarely, allergic reactions and bezoars (an accumulation of indigestible material in the gastrointestinal tract) have been reported.

Duodenal ulcer tends to be a recurrent disease. Once stopped, sucralfate will not influence the frequency or severity of future ulceration.

May not be suitable for people with conditions that impair swallowing or alter the gag or cough reflex, or with a prior history of aspiration. Rarely, aspiration of sucralfate tablets has occurred.

Sucralfate contains aluminum. After oral administration, small amounts of aluminum are absorbed. This may lead to aluminum accumulation in people with poor kidney function or who are taking other aluminum-containing products (such as antacids).

People with reduced kidney function may be more likely to experience side effects or aluminum accumulation with sucralfate. The dosage of sucralfate may need reducing in the elderly or those with known kidney impairment.

May reduce the absorption of some drugs including digoxin, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, phenytoin, and thyroxine. These drugs should be taken at least two hours before taking sucralfate.

Usually taken four times daily for ulcer treatment and twice daily for ulcer maintenance.

Notes: In general, seniors or children, people with certain medical conditions (such as liver or kidney problems, heart disease, diabetes, seizures) or people who take other medications are more at risk of developing a wider range of side effects. For a complete list of all side effects, click here.

Bottom Line

Sucralfate is used to treat duodenal ulcers. It appears to act directly on the ulcer, coating it with a protective film, and side effects are minimal.

Tips

The usual dosage for ulcer treatment is four times daily on an empty stomach (at least an hour before food and at bedtime). Take as directed by your doctor. Continue for the duration recommended or until x-ray or endoscopic exam confirms ulcer healing.

You may also take antacids while using sucralfate; however, do not take antacids within a half-hour of a dose of sucralfate.

Response and Effectiveness

Sucralfate acts locally (which means it acts directly on the stomach/duodenal lining - it does not have to be absorbed to have an effect).

Sucralfate forms a complex with the albumin exudate of the ulcer soon after tablet dissolution. One dose lasts approximately 6 hours.